OUR COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO SKIN TECH
With so much skincare information at our fingertips, ever-growing numbers of beauty enthusiasts – from neophytes to INCI nerds – are learning how to ‘futureproof’ their rituals with cutting-edge ingredients and savvy tech investments. It’s never been so easy to unleash your dormant derm, but with a swathe of skincare tools to choose from, how do you pick the right one? Never fear – we're here to steer you safely through the sprawling gadget labyrinth – with help from those who really know their gizmos.
IN THIS ARTICLE
- What is skin tech
- The best skincare devices
- The best skincare devices for toning
- The best skincare devices for light therapy
- Skin tech alternatives
WHAT IS SKIN TECH
Before going further, we need to demystify what ‘skin tech’ actually means. Officially defined as ‘devices that can help to improve the skin’s health and appearance’, these targeted tools work in myriad ways; harnessing similar technology to that used ‘in office’ by leading dermatologists, and making it appropriate (and safe!) for you at home. After all, who doesn’t crave the skin-plumping effects of a light-therapy facial, without the fuss of finding an appointment? Answer: no one, which is why - from LED face masks with acne-battling benefits, to microcurrent devices that gradually smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles - ‘skin tech’ is booming.
THE BEST SKINCARE DEVICES
As we mentioned, we’re here to be your ‘gadget guide’ and help you find your ‘skin tech’ soul mate. We’re going to focus on the two most popular technologies – microcurrent and light-therapy – with expert insights from the brains behind four of the biggest names in this pioneering arena.
THE BEST SKINCARE DEVICES FOR TONING
Stemming from technology developed to help treat patients with Bell’s Palsy (a condition that weakens the facial muscles which can lead to drooping), microcurrent devices use electrical currents to stimulate and strengthen the muscles beneath your skin. The result? A lifted, toned appearance with skin that feels firmer over time. Consistency is key – establish a routine to get the best results – and always use a suitable conductive gel. It’s also important to note that use of microcurrent devices is not advised if pregnant, you have a pacemaker or an electrical plate – opt for firming skincare instead.
£385.00
A household name within the ‘microcurrent space’, NuFace was one of the first to revolutionise the use of this skin-strengthening technology. We pitched some FAQs to Kate Prais-Szakal, the VP of Global Education for the brand.
Kate Prais-Szakal: Most skincare just treats the skin’s surface – but skin ageing is more than skin deep. As we age, we lose collagen and elastin stores, and muscle tone in the face becomes slack. When muscles lose tone, they begin to sag – which leads to droopy jowls, sagging brows and lines and wrinkles. Microcurrent goes where traditional skincare can’t – to the muscles – to treat the root cause of skin ageing. By stimulating and energising the facial muscles, microcurrent tones, lifts and contours for instant and long-term results.
KP-S: The Trinity+ uses microcurrent – a low-level current that mimics the body’s natural bioelectric signals. It helps to stimulate facial muscles and skin cells, supplementing the energy that’s required by cells to carry out their vital functions. This process supports improved tone, firmness and circulation – helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, redefine facial contours and promote both elastin and collagen production over time. It is clinically proven to give the face and neck a lifted look, to reduce jowls and sagging, and to improve the look of wrinkles.
KP-S: Like any microcurrent device, Trinity+ requires an activator for the best results. Our Hydrating Aqua Gel is a must-have for directing the microcurrent to the skin and facial muscles via its precice blend of glacial water and ions, alongside skin-loving ingredients like plumping hyaluronic acid. Consider it the non-negotiable skincare step to prep for microcurrent treatment.
£78.00
£385.00
£157.00
£185.00
Dr. LEVY Switzerland is another pioneering brand that’s staking its claim to the ‘skin tech’ space with the Contour Pro – hailed as a ‘stint in the gym’ for your skin, this multi-pronged device has been designed to work in perfect synergy with the brand’s trailblazing treatments. We spoke to Dr. Levy himself about the wizardy behind this ‘magic wand’.
£249.00
"As a dermatologist, my specialty is skin and my entire 35+ year career has been non-surgical rejuvenation; specifically the intricacies of the muscles in the face, their relation to the skin, their changes over time – all of this is the bedrock of my work every day," says Dr. Levy, who understands the nuances of what to activate, what to relax, what to soothe and what to energise.
"The Contour Pro combines two technologies. First, electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) to reactivate, strengthen and visibly plump facial muscles. With results you can see after 10 minutes, it’s unique sequencing of short and long pulses work on the muscles’ deeper resistance (‘core’ exercises), while visibly sculpting via ‘power’ exercises. Secondly, it harnesses low-level radiofrequency (RF) that helps to gradually stimulate collagen and renew the skin."
Dr. Levy: As its name – Contour Pro – implies, it recontours the face’s most delicate features and helps to ‘re-sculpt’ the face. It is small, so you can take it anywhere, and with consistent use, the low-level radiofrequency helps to boost collagen production and resilience – improving not just muscle tone, but also skin’s overall plumpness, firmness and glow.
£280.00
£249.00
£39.00
£69.00
£179.00
BEST SKINCARE DEVICES FOR LIGHT THERAPY
From snaps of Victoria Beckham wearing hers in bed, to countless beauty-thusiasts haunting your Instagram feed with their Halloween-worthy selfies, LED therapy is big business. One of the most popular types of device on the market at the moment, these treatments often use a combination of blue and red light diodes to target acne, scarring and signs of skin ageing. Emitting specific wavelengths of light – from blue to red and near-infrared – these calibrated frequencies can penetrate the skin to address the most common concerns. Studies have shown that while blue light skincare targets acne-causing bacteria, red lights can stimulate collagen synthesis to support repair. So, although you might look like an extra from Nightmare on Elm Street, the outcome is scarily good.
With 770 medical grade LEDs (over three times the number of other consumer-grade masks), Déesse PRO’s LED Phototherapy Mask has four different wavelengths and six setting to address the spectrum of needs. Choose between ‘Anti-Ageing Mode’, ‘Anti-Ageing Express Mode’, ‘Purifying Mode’, ‘Brightening Mode’, ‘Post-Procedure Mode’ and ‘Calming Mode’ - talk about going beyond the call of beauty!
To learn more about this trailblazing treatment, we caught up with the team at Déesse PRO.
£1,440.00
Déesse Pro: Our approach to skin technology is unique because we put skin health at the very core of everything we do. We are constantly innovating – using cutting-edge technology that is backed by science, dermatologists and even NASA-credible principles. Our mission is to sit at the intersection of skincare and clinical treatments – bringing skin ‘back to life’ in a way that works with its natural biology, rather than against it. That’s why all of our devices are completely non-invasive, and every innovation is designed to improve cellular energy, enhance recovery and rejuvenation for long-term skin health.
DP: The LED Phototherapy Mask uses light therapy – a technology with over 30 years of proven results in both medical and therapeutic fields. At its core, light therapy works by triggering natural biological processes in the skin to help it function more effectively. When specific wavelengths of light are absorbed, they create a biological and chemical reaction within the skin – this leads to visible improvements such as increased collagen production, reduced inflammation and acne, and enhanced overall radiance. It’s science-driven, safe and results-orientated.
CB: Are there skincare products you would recommend using alongside it to help maximise results?
DP: To get the best results from the device, it’s important to pair it with a consistent and reliable skincare routine. Start with a thorough cleanse – skin should always be clean and dry before treatment – then follow with a high-quality moisturiser to lock in hydration and, most importantly, use a broad-spectrum SPF (at least factor 30) each day. Protecting the skin ensures you not only maintain results, but minimise future damage.
£499.00
£299.00
£1,440.00
£150.00
And it isn’t just masks that are harnessing light to transform the complexion. The revolutionary LYMA Laser (loved by eternally luminous Carey Mulligan), relies on near-infrared light to promote elasticity, stimulate collagen, brighten dark spots and enhance your skin’s strength and elasticity. It’s completely painless, safe for use around the eyes and there’s zero downtime, so you can use it wherever, whenever. It even helps with blemishes and breakouts! Consider it a one-stop, skin-enhancing powerhouse – the ultimate investment in the future of your face.
£4,995.00
Lucy Goff, LYMA’s founder, talked to us about the (very many) benefits of using laser therapy, and what makes the LYMA devices so sought-after.
“When we launched the original Laser, we changed expectations of what at-home skin tech could achieve.” says Lucy. “Our approach has always been different because we see skin as part of a whole ecosystem, not something you fix in isolation. The Laser PRO is the next evolution of that thinking – it works from the surface right down to the cellular level, in harmony with the body’s natural repair processes. It’s not about quick fixes – it's about creating the right conditions for skin to work better, for longer.”
LG: From the very first use, the Laser Pro gets to work beneath the surface – triggering your skin’s natural repair process. Within a couple of weeks, many people notice smoother texture and more even tone – but the real magic happens with consistency. Using it daily for just a few minutes is like training your skin to be healthier and stronger, producing the highest-quality collagen to firm and lift over time. The longer you use it, the deeper and more lasting the benefits become – small daily steps that lead to big, lifelong rewards.
“The Laser PRO also works seamlessly with the products you already use. Many global skincare houses, such as Augustinus Bader and La Prairie, are incorporating the laser into their treatment protocols. It’s doesn’t just complement your skincare routine, it amplifies it – pushing active ingredients deeper into the skin so you get more out of every step.”
£230.00
£4,995.00
£199.00
£610.00
£2,269.00
£310.00
NOT READY TO DIVE IN? TRY THESE INSTEAD
CRYOTHERAPY FACE ROLLERS
Refreshing the skin with its coldness, facial rollers work by helping reduce inflammation, puffiness and redness. What’s more with the cold temperatures applied to the surface of the skin they aid blood flow, making your complexion look brighter and tighter.
£25.00
£15.00
£49.00
£29.00
GUA SHA
While many may think gua sha is a new skincare phenomenon, this smooth-edged tool has actually been around for centuries. Used predominantly in Chinese medicine, they look to relieve tension, improve circulation and lymphatic drainage. Using only the pressure of your hands, these stones glide along the contours of your face to lift, revive and sculpt.
£50.00
£40.00
£40.00
Now all that’s left to do is pick a binge-worthy series and sit back and relax.
Rina is Cult Beauty’s Midweight SEO Copywriter and has always had a passion for beauty and skin care (rich moisturisers are her obsession). What started as a love for The Body Shop and their famed Born Lippy lip balms (in ‘Watermelon’ of course!), she is now more interested in finding products with proven effectiveness instead of broken promises. A loud and proud VIEVE fan, Rina owns nearly every item of the range and recommends the brand to anyone who will listen... When she’s not intently reading ingredient lists, you can find her either immersed in multiple true crime podcasts or a fantasy romance novel, with an *extra* hot cappuccino in hand.
